Send Google Drive attachments in Gmail

When you send messages in Gmail, you can attach files from Google Drive, such as documents and photos. This is especially helpful if the document is larger than the Gmail file size limit, or if you want to collaborate with others on the document.

Send a Google Drive attachment

Drive link: This works for any files stored in Drive, including files created using Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, or Forms.

Attachment: This only works for files that weren't created using Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, or Forms.

Click Insert.

Sharing settings for Google Drive files

When you attach a Google Drive file to a message, Gmail checks to see if your recipients have access to the file. If they don't, you'll be prompted to change the sharing settings of the file before you send your message.